By cipher

To the Revolutionary Military Council of the Caucasus Front

Smilga

and Ordzhonikidze

Taking Baku is extremely, extremely necessary for us. Direct all efforts toward this, while in statements being scrupulously diplomatic and ascertaining to the maximum extent the preparation of a firm local Soviet power. The same applies to Georgia, though I advise you to approach it still more cautiously. Coordinate the transfer of troops with the Commander-in-Chief.

Lenin

First published in 1942

in Lenin Collection XXXIV

Printed from the manuscript